Karnataka Celebrates Ugadi; PM Modi Sends Warm Wishes

March 19, 2026

Bengaluru, March 19, 2026: Karnataka came alive on Thursday as people across the state celebrated Ugadi, the Kannada New Year, with great enthusiasm. From bustling cities to quiet towns, homes were cleaned and decorated, while families prepared traditional festive meals. Meanwhile, temples witnessed a steady stream of devotees, offering prayers for health, prosperity, and new beginnings. The festival marks the start of the Chaitra month and symbolizes hope, renewal, and cultural continuity.

PM Modi’s Heartfelt Wishes

In a special message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to the people of Karnataka. He spoke of the “joy and cheer” that Ugadi brings, and additionally highlighted the optimism it inspires among farmers as they prepare for the new agricultural season.

Moreover, he reflected on the significance of traditional bittersweet dishes prepared during Ugadi, noting that they remind people to embrace life’s sweet and bitter moments with courage and gratitude. “May the New Year bring peace, positivity, and prosperity to every household,” the Prime Minister added.

Local Leaders Join the Celebrations

Meanwhile, in the state, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah shared his festive greetings on social media, emphasizing the tradition of eating neem with jaggery — a symbolic gesture to accept life’s challenges alongside its joys. Similarly, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra also extended their wishes, hoping for harmony and progress across Karnataka.

A Festival Steeped in Tradition

Furthermore, Ugadi, also called “Yugadi,” is more than just a New Year festival. Homes are decorated with mango leaves, prayers are offered in temples, and families gather to share special meals. As a result, the festival fosters family bonding and cultural continuity while encouraging reflection and goal-setting for the year ahead.

Overall, celebrations across Karnataka reflected a colorful mix of devotion, food, and community togetherness. In the meantime, the state came together to welcome the New Year with optimism, reinforcing Ugadi’s role as a cherished cultural and spiritual tradition.